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HARTE HANKS INC

For the period ended Dec 31, 2023. Filed Apr 1, 2024.

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A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.

FY2023 · Filed Apr 1, 2024

HHS$3.95-1.2%Stored close · as of Nov 10, 2026

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Contents

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Harte Hanks, Inc. and Subsidiaries Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Note A —Background and Basis of Presentation

Background

Harte Hanks, Inc. together with its subsidiaries (“Harte Hanks,” “Company,” “we,” “our,” or “us”) is a leading global customer experience company. With offices in North America, Asia-Pacific and Europe, Harte Hanks works with some of the world’s most respected brands.

Basis of Presentation (including principles of consolidation)

Consolidation

The accompanying audited consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Harte Hanks, Inc. and its subsidiaries. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. As used in this report, the terms “Harte Hanks,” “the Company,” “we,” “us,” or “our” may refer to Harte Hanks, Inc., one or more of its consolidated subsidiaries, or all of them taken as a whole, as the context may require.

Reclassifications

Certain amounts in the consolidated financial statements related to the prior years have been reclassified to conform to the current year’s presentation.

Operating Expense Presentation in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

The “Labor” line in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income includes all employee payroll and benefits costs, including stock-based compensation and temporary labor costs. The “Production and distribution” and “Advertising, selling, general and administrative” lines do not include labor, depreciation, or amortization expense.

Note B —Significant Accounting Policies

Use of Estimates

Preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported and disclosed in the financial statements and the accompanying notes. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates due to uncertainties. Such estimates include, butare not limited to, estimates related to lease accounting; pension accounting; fair value for purposes of assessing long-lived assets for impairment; revenue recognition; income taxes; stock-based compensation and contingencies. On an ongoing basis, management reviews its estimates and assumptions based on currently available information. Changes in facts and circumstances could result in revised estimates and assumptions.

Segment Reporting

The Company operates three business segments: Marketing Services; Customer Care; and Fulfillment & Logistics Services. Our Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) is considered to be our chief operating decision maker. Our CEO reviews our operating results on an aggregate basis for purposes of allocating resources and evaluating financial performance by using the three financial measures: revenue, operating income and operating income plus depreciation and amortization (EBITDA).

Cash Equivalents

All highly liquid investments with an original maturity of 90 days or less at the time of purchase are considered to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents are carried at cost, which approximates fair value.

Restricted Cash

In our normal business operation, we receive cash from our customers for certain customer program service funding. As these programs impose legal restrictions on the commingling of funds, we present this cash as restricted cash.

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Credit Losses

Accounts receivables are recorded and carried at the original invoiced amount less an allowance for any potential uncollectible amounts. We make estimates of expected credit and collectability trends for the allowance for credit losses based upon our assessment of various factors, including historical experience, the age of the accounts receivable balances, credit quality of our customers, current and future economic conditions that may affect the Company's expectation of the collectability in determining the allowance for credit losses. Expected credit losses are recorded in the “Advertising, selling, general, and administrative” line of our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, our accounts receivables, net, was $34.3 million and $39.7 million, respectively. The Company classifies unbilled receivables as Accounts receivable. The changes in the allowance for credit losses accounts consisted of the following:

Year Ended December 31,
In thousands20232022
Balance at beginning of year$163$266
Net charges to expense321(92)
Amounts recovered against the allowance(10)(11)
Balance at end of year$474$163

Unbilled receivables

For the majority of service contracts, the Company performs the services prior to billing the client, and this amount is captured as an unbilled receivable included in accounts receivable, net on the consolidated balance sheet. Billing usually occurs in the month after the Company performs the services or in accordance with the specific contractual provisions.

Geographic Concentrations

Depending on the needs of our clients, our services are provided through an integrated approach through eleven facilities worldwide, of which four are located outside of the U.S.

The following table provides information about the operations in different geographic area for the periods indicated:

Revenue(1)Year Ended December 31,
In thousands20232022
United States$173,162$183,470
Other countries18,33022,808
Total revenue$191,492$206,278

(1) Geographic revenues are based on the location of the service being performed.

Property, plant and equipment, net(2)December 31,
In thousands20232022
United States$8,005$10,219
Other countries850304
Total property, plant and equipment$8,855$10,523

(2) Property, plant and equipment are based on physical location.

Credit Risk and Concentration

Accounts receivable are typically unsecured and are derived from revenue earned from customers across different industries and countries. We perform ongoing credit evaluation of our customers and generally do not require collateral. We maintain an allowance for estimated credit losses and bad debt expense on these losses was not material during the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022. In the event that accounts receivable collection cycle deteriorates, our operating results and financial position could be adversely affected.

Our top customer represented 11.2% and 13.0% of total accounts receivable as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Revenue by Top Customers

The table below sets forth the percentage of our total revenue derived from our largest customers:

Year Ended December 31,
20232022
Top ten customers48.5%50.6%
Top twenty-five customers71.7%72.5%

Our top customer represented 11.2% and 12.2% of total revenue for the year ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Related Party Transactions

From 2016 until October 2020, we conducted business with Wipro, LLC (“Wipro”), whereby Wipro provided us with a variety of technology-related services. We have since terminated all service agreements with Wipro. Effective January 30, 2018, Wipro became a related party when it purchased 9,926 shares of our Series A Preferred Stock, for aggregate consideration of $9.9 million. On December 2, 2022, we completed the repurchase of all of our outstanding Preferred Stock from Wipro and as of said date Wipro is no longer a related party.

Revenue Recognition

We recognize revenue upon transfer of control of promised products or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to be entitled to receive in exchange for those products or services based on the relevant contract. We apply the following five-step revenue recognition model:

Identification of the contract, or contracts, with a customer

Identification of the performance obligations in the contract

Determination of the transaction price

Allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract

Recognition of revenue when (or as) we satisfy the performance obligation

Certain client programs provide for adjustments to billings based upon whether we achieve certain performance criteria. In these circumstances, revenue is recognized when the foregoing conditions are met. We record revenue net of any taxes collected from customers and subsequently remitted to governmental authorities. Any payments received in advance of the performance of services or delivery of the product are recorded as deferred revenue until such time as the services are performed or the product is delivered. Costs incurred for search engine marketing solutions payable to the engine host and postage costs of mailings are billed to our clients and are not directly reflected in our revenue.

Revenue from agency and digital services, direct mail, logistics, fulfillment and contact center is recognized as the work is performed. Fees for these services are determined by the terms set forth in each contract. These fees are typically a set fixed price or rate by transaction occurrence, service provided, time spent, or product delivered.

For arrangements requiring the design and build out of a database, revenue is not recognized until client acceptance occurs. Up-front fees billed during the setup phase for these arrangements are deferred and direct build costs are capitalized. Pricing for these types of arrangements is typically based on a fixed price determined in the contract. Revenue from other database marketing solutions is recognized ratably over the contractual service period. Pricing for these services is typically based on a fixed price per month or per contract.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standard Codification ("ASC") 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, ("ASC 820") defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. ASC 820 also establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used in valuation methodologies into three levels:

Level 1 Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2 Observable inputs other than Level 1 prices, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.

Level 3 Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities.

Because of their maturities and/or variable interest rates, certain financial instruments have fair values approximating their carrying values. These instruments include cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash, accounts receivable, trade payables, and long-term debt. The fair value of the assets in our funded pension plan is disclosed in Note H, Employee Benefit Plans.

Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, plant and equipment, net consist of the following:

Year Ended December 31,
In thousands20232022
Property, plant and equipment
Buildings and improvements$4,635$4,387
Equipment and furniture20,88120,478
Software18,03020,724
Software development and equipment installations in progress1,8428,947
Gross property, plant and equipment45,38854,536
Less accumulated depreciation(36,533)(44,013)
Net property, plant and equipment$8,855$10,523

Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. The general ranges of estimated useful lives are:

Years
Buildings and improvements3 to 40
Software2 to 10
Equipment and furniture3 to 20

For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company recorded $3.4 million of depreciation expense compared to $2.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2022.

Long-lived assets such as property, plant and equipment are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. The carrying amount of a long-lived asset group is not recoverable if it exceeds the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the asset group. We recorded $0.1 million and $0.2 million ofimpairment of long-lived assets in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Leases

We determine if an arrangement is a lease at its inception. Operating and finance leases are included in the lease right-of-use (“ROU”) assets and in the current portion and long-term portion of lease liabilities on our consolidated balance sheets. ROU assets represent our right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent our obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. Operating lease ROU assets and liabilities are recognized at commencement date of each lease based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. As most of our leases do not provide an implicit interest rate, we use our incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at commencement date of each lease to determine the present value of lease payments. The operating lease ROU assets also include any lease payments made and exclude lease incentives. Our lease terms may include options to extend or terminate the lease, which are included in the lease ROU assets when it is reasonably certain that we will exercise that option. Lease expense for lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. We have lease agreements with lease and non-lease components, which are generally accounted for separately. For certain real estate leases, we account for the lease and non-lease components as a single lease component.

Capitalization of Software Development Costs

Capitalized software costs for internally developed software and implementation of third-party software are amortized over a period ofthree tofive years. On an ongoing basis, management reviews the valuation of these software costs to determine if there has been impairment to the carrying value of these assets and adjusts this value accordingly.

Goodwill

Goodwill is the amount by which the cost of the acquired net assets in a business combination exceeds the fair value of the identifiable net assets on the date of purchase. Goodwill is not amortized. Goodwill is reviewed for impairment at least annually during the fourth quarter, or more frequently if events occur indicating the potential for impairment.

The Company hasthree reporting segments, but the current goodwill balance is booked in the Customer Care segment. During its goodwill impairment review, the Company may assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of its reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, including goodwill. The qualitative factors include, but are not limited to, macroeconomic conditions, industry and market considerations, and the overall financial performance of the Company. If, after assessing the totality of these qualitative factors, the Company determines that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of its reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, then no additional assessment is deemed necessary. Otherwise, the Company performs a quantitative goodwill impairment test. The Company may also elect to bypass the qualitative assessment in a period and elect to proceed to perform the quantitative goodwill impairment test. There isno goodwill impairment as of December 31, 2023.

Intangible Assets

Intangible assets consist of finite-lived intangible assets acquired through the Company’s business combinations. Such amounts are initially recorded at fair value and subsequently amortized over their useful lives using the straight-line method, which reflects the pattern of benefit, and assumes no residual value.

Finite-lived intangibles are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. If circumstances require an intangible asset be tested for possible impairment, the Company first compares undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by that intangible asset to its carrying amount. If the carrying amount of the intangible asset is not recoverable on an undiscounted cash flow basis, an impairment is recognized to the extent that the carrying amount exceeds its fair value. Fair value is determined through various valuation techniques, including discounted cash flow models, quoted market values, and third-party independent appraisals, as considered necessary.

The factors that drive the estimate of useful life are often uncertain and are reviewed on a periodic basis or when events occur that warrant review. Recoverability is measured by comparing the assets’ book value to future net undiscounted cash flows that the assets are expected to generate to determine if a write-down to the recoverable amount is appropriate. If such assets are written down, an impairment will be recognized as the amount by which the book value of the asset group exceeds the recoverable amount. There isno impairment of our intangible assets as of December 31, 2023.

Income Taxes

Income tax expense includes U.S. and international income taxes accounted for under the asset and liability method. Certain income and expenses are not reported in tax returns and financial statements in the same year. Such temporary differences are reported as deferred tax. Deferred tax assets are reported net of valuation allowances where we have assessed that it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will not be realized.

Earnings Per Share

Basic earnings per common share is based upon the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per common share is based upon the weighted-average number of common shares and dilutive common stock equivalents outstanding during the period. Dilutive common stock equivalents are calculated based on the assumed exercise of stock options and vesting of unvested shares using the treasury stock method.

Stock-Based Compensation

All share-based awards are recognized as operating expense in the “Labor” line of the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. Calculated expense is based on the fair values of the awards on the date of grant and is recognized over the requisite service period or performance period of the awards.

Reserve for Healthcare, Workers’ Compensation, Automobile and General Liability

We are self-insured for the majority of our healthcare insurance. We pay actual medical claims up to a stop loss limit of $0.3 million. Our workers’ compensation programs are a guaranteed cost program. The reserve is estimated using current claims activity, historical experience, and claims incurred but not reported. We use loss development factors that consider both industry norms and company specific information. Our liability is recorded at the estimate of the ultimate cost of claims at the balance sheet date. On December 31, 2023 and 2022, our reserve for healthcare, workers’ compensation, net, automobile, and general liability was $1.1 million, for the year ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Periodic changes to the reserve for workers’ compensation, automobile and general liability are recorded as increases or decreases to insurance expense, which is included in the “Advertising, selling, general and administrative” line of our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. Periodic changes to the reserve for healthcare are recorded as increases or decreases to employee benefits expense, which is included in the “Labor” line of our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income.

Foreign Currencies

In most instances the functional currencies of our foreign operations are the local currencies. Assets and liabilities recorded in foreign currencies are translated in U.S. dollars at the exchange rate on the balance sheet date. Revenue and expenses are translated at average rates of exchange prevailing during a given month. Adjustments resulting from this translation are charged or credited to other comprehensive income.

Recent Accounting Guidance Not Yet Adopted

In November 2023, the FASB issued accounting standards update (“ASU”) 2023-07, which enhances the disclosures required for reportable segments in annual and interim consolidated financial statements. ASU 2023-07 is effective for the Company for annual reporting periods beginning with the fiscal year ending November 30, 2025, and for interim reporting periods beginning in fiscal year 2026. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that this update will have on its disclosures in the consolidated financial statements.

In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, which requires enhanced income tax disclosures, including disaggregation of information in the rate reconciliation table and disaggregated information related to income taxes paid. The amendments in ASU 2023-09 are effective for the fiscal year ending after November 30, 2026. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that this update will have on its disclosures in the consolidated financial statements.

No other new accounting pronouncements recently adopted or issued had or are expected to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.

Note C -Operating revenue from Contracts with Customers

Under Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASC 606”), an entity recognizes revenue when its customer obtains control of promised goods or services, in an amount that reflects the consideration the entity expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. To determine revenue recognition for arrangements that are within the scope of the new standard, the entity performs the following five steps: (i) identify the contract(s) with a customer; (ii) identify the performance obligations in the contract; (iii) determine the transaction price; (iv) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract; and (v) recognize revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance obligation. This standard requires disclosure of the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. This standard also includes criteria for the capitalization and amortization of certain contract acquisition and fulfillment costs.

Under ASC 606, revenue is recognized when control of the promised goods or services is transferred to the customer, in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. Our contracts with customers state the terms of sale, including the description, quantity, and price of the product sold or service provided. Payment terms can vary by contract, but the period between invoicing and when payment is due is not significant. The Company's contracts with its customers generally do not include rights of return or a significant financing component.

Consistent with legacy U.S. GAAP, we present sales taxes assessed on revenue-producing transactions on a net basis.

Disaggregation of Revenue

We disaggregate revenue by three key revenue streams which are aligned with our business segments. The nature of the services offered by each key revenue stream is different. The following tables summarize revenue from contracts with customers for the years ended December 31, 2023, and 2022 from ourthree business segments and the pattern of revenue recognition:

For the Year Ended December 31, 2023
In thousandsRevenue for performanceobligations recognizedover timeRevenue for performanceobligations recognized at apoint in timeTotal
Marketing Services$38,950$4,254$43,204
Customer Care63,327—63,327
Fulfillment & Logistics Services69,03815,92384,961
Total Revenue$171,315$20,177$191,492
For the Year Ended December 31, 2022
In thousandsRevenue for performanceobligations recognizedover timeRevenue for performanceobligations recognized at apoint in timeTotal
Marketing Services$45,020$7,955$52,975
Customer Care67,205—67,205
Fulfillment & Logistics Services75,08111,01786,098
Total Revenue$187,306$18,972$206,278

Our contracts with customers may consist of multiple performance obligations. If the contract contains a single performance obligation, the entire transaction price is allocated to the single performance obligation. Contracts that contain multiple performance obligations require an allocation of the transaction price to each performance obligation based on a relative standalone selling price (“SSP”) basis unless the transaction price is variable and meets the criteria to be allocated entirely to a performance obligation or to a distinct good or service that forms part of a single performance obligation. For most performance obligations, we determine SSP based on the price at which the performance obligation is sold separately. Although uncommon, if the SSP is not observable through past transactions, we estimate the SSP taking into account available information such as market conditions and internally approved pricing guidelines related to the performance obligations. Further discussion of other performance obligations in each of our major revenue streams follows:

Marketing Services

Our Marketing Services segment delivers strategic planning, data strategy, performance analytics, creative development and execution, technology enablement, marketing automation, and database management. We create relevancy by leveraging data, insight, and our extensive experience in leading clients as they engage their customers through digital, traditional, and emerging channels. We are known for helping clients build deep customer relationships, create connected customer experiences, and optimize each and every customer touch point in order to deliver desired business outcomes.

Most marketing services performance obligations are satisfied over time and often offered on a project basis. We have concluded that the best approach to measure the progress toward completion of the project-based performance obligations is the input method, which is based on either the costs or labor hours incurred to date depending upon whether costs or labor hours more accurately depict the transfer of value to the customer.

Our database solutions are built around centralized marketing databases with services rendered to build custom databases, database hosting services, customer or target marketing lists and data processing services.

These performance obligations, including services rendered to build a custom database, database hosting services, customer or target marketing lists and data processing services, may be satisfied over time or at a point in time. We provide SaaS solutions to host data for customers and have concluded that they are stand-ready obligations to be recognized over time on a monthly basis. Our promise to provide certain data related services meets the over-time recognition criteria because our services do not create an asset with an alternative use, and we have an enforceable right to payment. For performance obligations recognized over time, we choose either the input (i.e., labor hour) or output method (i.e., number of customer records) to measure the progress toward completion depending on the nature of the services provided. Some of our other data-related services do not meet the over-time criteria and are therefore, recognized at a point-in-time, typically upon the delivery of a specific deliverable.

Our contracts may include outsourced print production work for our clients. These contracts may include a promise to purchase postage on behalf of our clients. In such cases, we have determined we are an agent, rather than principal and therefore recognize net consideration as revenue.

Customer Care

We deliver customer care services in the United States, Asia and Europe to provide advanced solutions such as voice, SMS/chat, email, integrated voice response, web self-service, social cloud monitoring and analytics.

Performance obligations are stand-ready obligations and are satisfied over time. With regard to account management and software as a service (“SaaS”), we use a time-elapsed output method to recognize revenue. For performance obligations where we charge customers a transaction-based fee, we use the output method based on transaction quantities. In most cases, our contracts provide us the right to invoice for services provided, therefore, we generally use the “as invoiced” practical expedient to recognize revenue associated with these performance obligations unless significant discounts are offered in a contract and prices for services do not represent their SSPs.

Fulfillment & Logistics Services

Our services, delivered internally and with our partners, include: printing, lettershop, advanced mail optimization (including commingling services), logistics and transportation optimization, monitoring and tracking, to support traditional and specialized mailings. Our print and fulfillment centers in Massachusetts and Kansas provide custom kitting services, print on demand, product recalls, trade marketing fulfillment, ecommerce product fulfillment, sampling programs, and freight optimization, thereby allowing our customers to distribute literature and other marketing materials.

Most performance obligations offered within this revenue stream are satisfied over time and utilize the input or output method, depending on the nature of the service, to measure progress toward satisfying the performance obligation. For performance obligations where we charge customers a transaction-based fee, we utilize the output method based on the quantities fulfilled. Services provided through our fulfillment centers are typically priced at a per transaction basis and our contracts provide us the right to invoice for services provided and reflects the value to the customer of the services transferred to date. In most cases, we use the “as invoiced” practical expedient to recognize revenue associated with these performance obligations unless significant discounts are offered in a contract and prices for services do not represent their standalone selling prices. Prior to the closure of our direct mail production facilities, our direct mail business contracts may have included a promise to purchase postage on behalf of our clients; in such cases, we have determined we are an agent, rather than principal and therefore recognize net consideration as revenue.

Transaction Price Allocated to Future Performance Obligations

We have elected to apply certain optional exemptions that limit the disclosure requirements over remaining performance obligations at period end to exclude performance obligations that have an original expected duration of one year or less, transactions using the “as invoiced” practical expedient, or when a performance obligation is a series and we have allocated the variable consideration directly to the services performed. As of December 31, 2023, we hadno transaction prices allocated to unsatisfied or partially satisfied performance obligations.

Contract Balances

We record a receivable when revenue is recognized prior to invoicing when we have an unconditional right to consideration (only the passage of time is required before payment of that consideration is due) and a contract asset when the right to payment is conditional upon our future performance such as delivery of an additional good or service (e.g. customer contract requires customer’s final acceptance of custom database solution or delivery of final marketing strategy delivery presentation before customer payment is required). If invoicing occurs prior to revenue recognition, the unearned revenue is presented on our Consolidated Balance Sheets as a contract liability, referred to as deferred revenue. The following table summarizes our contract balances as of December 31, 2023 and 2022:

In thousandsDecember 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Contract assets$258$309
Deferred revenue and customer advances3,1954,590
Deferred revenue included in other long-term liabilities294432

Revenue recognized during the year ended December 31, 2023 from amounts included in deferred revenue as of December 31, 2022 was approximately $4.3 million. Revenue recognized during the year ended December 31, 2022 from amounts included in deferred revenue as of December 31, 2021 was approximately $3.7 million.

Costs to Obtain and Fulfill a Contract

We recognize an asset for the direct costs incurred to obtain and fulfill our contracts with customers to the extent that we expect to recover these costs and if the benefit is longer than one year. These costs are amortized to expense over the expected period of the benefit in a manner that is consistent with the transfer of the related goods or services to which the asset relates. We impair the asset when recoverability is not anticipated. We capitalized a portion of commission expense, implementation and other costs that represents the cost to obtain a contract. The remaining unamortized contract costs were $0.6 million and $1.0 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. They are included in other current assets and other assets on our balance sheet. For the years presented, no impairment was recognized.

Note D -Leases

We have operating and finance leases for corporate and business offices, service facilities, call centers and certain equipment. Leases with an initial term of 12 months or less are generally not recorded on the balance sheet, unless the arrangement includes an option to purchase the underlying asset, or an option to renew the arrangement, that we are reasonably certain to exercise (short-term leases). Our leases have remaining lease terms ofone year toseven years, some of which may include options to extend the leases for up to an additional five years.

We sublease our Fullerton (CA), Jacksonville (FL) and Uxbridge (UK) facilities. The lease and sublease for Fullerton (CA) facility expired in April 2023, the lease and sublease for Uxbridge (UK) facility expired in October 2023, and the lease and sublease for Jacksonville (FL) facility will expire at the end of July 2024.

As of December 31, 2023, assets recorded under finance and operating leases were approximately $0.1 million and $25.3 million respectively, and accumulated amortization associated with finance leases was $0.1 million. As of December 31, 2022 assets recorded under finance and operating leases were approximately $0.6 million and $18.6 million respectively, and accumulated depreciation associated with finance leases was $1.0 million. Operating lease right of use assets and lease liabilities are recognized at the lease commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term.

The discount rate used to determine the commencement date present value of lease payment is the interest rate implicit in the lease, or when that is not readily determinable, we utilized our incremental borrowing rate, which is the rate incurred to borrow on a collateralized basis over a similar term at an amount equal to the lease payments in a similar economic environment. Certain adjustments to the right-of-use asset may be required for items such as initial direct costs paid or incentives received.

During the year ended December 31, 2023, we impairedtwo leases for the facilities we no longer occupied. The resulting impairment and early termination charges are included in our restructuring expenses for the year ended December 31, 2023. There isno impairment of leases in the year ended December 31, 2022.

The following tables present supplemental balance sheet information related to our financing and operating leases:

As of December 31, 2023As of December 31, 2022
In thousandsOperating LeasesFinance LeasesTotalOperating LeasesFinance LeasesTotal
Right-of-use Assets$25,288$129$25,417$18,574$595$19,169
Liabilities:
Short-term lease liabilities4,773424,8155,5871605,747
Long-term lease liabilities23,687423,69116,5235216,575
Total Lease Liabilities$28,460$46$28,506$22,110$212$22,322

For the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the components of lease expense were as follows:

In thousandsYear Ended December 31, 2023Year Ended December 31, 2022
Operating lease cost$5,526$5,832
Finance lease cost
Amortization of right-of-use assets123166
Interest on lease liabilities716
Total Finance lease cost130182
Variable lease cost2,0681,899
Sublease income(834)(828)
Total lease cost, net$6,890$7,085

Other information related to leases was as follows:

In thousandsYear Ended December 31, 2023Year Ended December 31, 2022
Supplemental Cash Flows Information
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating cash flows from operating leases$12,525$12,698
Operating cash flows from finance leases2115
Financing cash flows from finance leases160194
Weighted Average Remaining Lease term (in years)
Operating leases6.845.92
Finance leases1.041.36
Weighted Average Discount Rate
Operating leases5.65%3.55%
Finance leases7.76%5.70%

The maturities of the Company’s finance and operating lease liabilities as of December 31, 2023 are as follows:

In thousandsOperating Leases(1)Finance Leases
Year Ending December 31,
2024$6,173$44
20254,6483
20264,2191
20274,191—
20284,094—
2028 & Beyond11,397—
Total future minimum lease payments34,72248
Less: Imputed interest6,2622
Total lease liabilities$28,460$46

(1)Non-cancelable sublease proceeds for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024 of $0.4 million, is not included in the table above.

As of December 31, 2023, we have no new operating leases that have not yet commenced.

Note E -Convertible Preferred Stock and Share Repurchase Program

Convertible Preferred Stock

Our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation authorizes us to issue 1.0 million shares of preferred stock. On June 30, 2022, the Company entered into a share repurchase agreement (the “Repurchase Agreement”) with Wipro, pursuant to which the Company agreed to repurchase all 9,926 shares of the Preferred Stock then outstanding in exchange for (i) a cash payment equal to its liquidation value, or total cash payment of $9,926,000 and (ii)100,000 shares of the Company’s common stock, par value $1.00 per share (the “Common Stock”). The cash portion of the repurchase price was previously paid into escrow at the signing of the Repurchase Agreement on June 30, 2022 and held in escrow until the closing of the repurchase by PNC Bank, National Association, pending the re-issuance of the Preferred Stock from the State of New Jersey. Other than the release of previously escrowed funds, no additional cash was paid by Harte Hanks at closing. On December 2, 2022, we completed the closing of our June 30, 2022 definitive agreement with Wipro.

On March 20, 2023, the Company cancelled all shares of Series A Preferred Stock pursuant to the Certificate of Elimination filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware.

Share Repurchase Program

On May 2, 2023, the Board of Directors of Harte Hanks approved a share repurchase program to maximize shareholder value with authorization to repurchase $6.5 million of the Company’s Common Stock. In the year ended December 31, 2023, we repurchased 0.4 million shares of common stock for $2.4 million.

Note F —Long-Term Debt

Credit Facility

On December 21, 2021, the Company entered a newthree year, $25.0 million asset-based revolving credit facility (the “Credit Facility”) with Texas Capital Bank ("TCB"). The Company’s obligations under the Credit Facility are guaranteed on a joint and several basis by the Company’s material subsidiaries (the “Guarantors”). The Credit Facility is secured by substantially all the assets of the Company and the Guarantors pursuant to a Pledge and Security Agreement, dated as of December 21, 2021, between the Company, TCB and the other Guarantors party thereto (the “Security Agreement”). On December 29, 2023, the Company extended the agreementsix months to June 30, 2025. The extension was executed with substantially similar terms and conditions.

The Credit Facility provides for loans up to the lesser of (a) $25.0 million, and (b) the amount available under a “borrowing base” calculated primarily by reference to the Company's cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivables. The Credit Facility allows the Company to use up to $3.0 million on of its borrowing capacity to issue letters of credit.

The loans under the Credit Facility accrue interest at a varying rate equal to the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) plus a margin of 2.25% per annum. The interest rate was 7.64% as of December 31, 2023. The outstanding amounts advanced under the Credit Facility are due and payable in full on June 30, 2025. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, we hadno borrowings outstanding under the Credit Facility. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, we had letters of credit outstanding in the amount of $0.8 million. No amounts were drawn against these letters of credit as of December 31, 2023 . These letters of credit exist to support insurance programs relating to workers‘ compensation, automobile, and general liability. Unused commitment balances accrued fees at a rate of 0.25%.

As of December 31, 2023, we had the ability to borrow an additional $24.2 million under the Credit Facility.

Cash payments for interest were $0.2 million and $0.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Note G —Stock-Based Compensation

We maintain stock incentive plans for the benefit of certain officers, directors, and employees. Our stock incentive plans provide for the ability to issue stock options, cash stock appreciation rights, performance stock units, phantom stock units and cash performance stock units. Our cash stock appreciation rights, phantom stock units and cash performance stock units settle solely in cash and are treated as the current liability, which are adjusted each reporting period based on changes in our stock price.

Compensation expense for stock-based awards is based on the fair values of the awards on the date of grant and is recognized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period of the entire award in the “Labor” line of the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. We recognized $1.4 million and $2.4 million of stock-based compensation expense for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

In May 2013, our stockholders approved the 2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan (“2013 Plan”), pursuant to which we may issue up to 500,000 shares of stock-based awards to directors, employees, and consultants, as adjusted for the reverse stock split. The 2013 Plan replaced the stockholder-approved 2005 Omnibus Incentive Plan (“2005 Plan”), pursuant to which we issued equity securities to directors, officers, and key employees. No additional stock-based awards will be granted under the 2005 Plan, but awards previously granted under the 2005 Plan will remain outstanding in accordance with their respective terms. In August 2018, we filed a Form S-8 to increase the total registered shares under 2013 Plan to 553,673 shares. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, there were 190,187 and 188,582 shares available, respectively, for grant under the 2013 Plan.

In 2020, we established our 2020 Equity Incentive Plan ("2020 Plan") which replaced the 2013 Equity Incentive Plan (“2013 Plan”). Any shares of common stock that remained eligible for issuance under the 2013 Plan are now instead eligible for issuance under the 2020 Plan. In August 2020, we filed a Form S-8 to register up to an aggregate of 2,521,244 shares that may be issued under the 2020 Plan. The 2020 Plan provides for the issuance of stock-based awards to directors, employees and consultants. No additional stock-based awards will be granted under the 2013 Plan, but awards previously granted under the 2013 Plan will remain outstanding in accordance with their respective terms. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, there were 1.3 million and 1.3 million shares available, respectively, for grant under the 2020 Plan.

In August 2023, we established the 2023 Inducement Equity Incentive Plan ("2023 Plan"), pursuant to which the Company issued 240,000 shares of stock option awards, which is the limit of the plan.

Stock Options

Options granted under the 2023 Plan have an exercise price equal to the closing market price of our common stock on the date prior to the grant date. These options become exercisable in 33.3% increments on the first three anniversaries of their date of grant and expire on thetenth anniversary of their date of grant. Options to purchase 240,000 shares granted under 2023 Plan awards were outstanding as of December 31, 2023, with exercise prices ranging from $5.59 to $76.80 per share.

Options granted under the 2020 Plan, 2013 Plan or as inducement awards have an exercise price equal to the market value of the common stock on the grant date. These options become exercisable in 25% increments on the first four anniversaries of their date of grant and expire on thetenth anniversary of their date of grant. There wereno options outstanding under the 2020 plan as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.

Options to purchase 6,663 shares granted under 2013 Plan awards were outstanding as of December 31, 2023, with exercise prices ranging from $5.59 to $116.40 per share. Options to purchase 8,268 shares granted under 2013 Plan awards were outstanding as of December 31, 2022, with exercise prices ranging from $76.80 to $115.20 per share.

Options under the 2005 Plan were granted at exercise prices equal to the market value of the common stock on the grant date. All such awards have met their respective vesting dates. There wereno options outstanding under the 2005 Plan as of December 31, 2023. Options to purchase 4,400 shares were outstanding under the 2005 Plan as of December 31, 2022, with exercise prices ranging from $76.80 to $115.20 per share.

Options granted to officers after April 2015 vest in full upon a change in control if such options are not assumed or replaced by a publicly traded successor with an equivalent award (as defined in such officers’ change in control severance agreements).

The following summarizes all stock option activity during the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022:

In thousands · Number of Shares · Weighted-Average Exercise Price · Weighted- Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years) · Aggregate Intrinsic Value (Thousands)
Options outstanding at December 31, 202137,615$80.211.36$—
Adjustment and Correction(20,000)
Granted in 2022————
Exercised in 2022————
Unvested options forfeited in 2022————
Vested options expired in 2022(4,947)95.80——
Options outstanding at December 31, 202212,668$78.881.16$—
Granted in 2023240,000$5.599.67288
Exercised in 2023————
Unvested options forfeited in 2023————
Vested options expired in 2023(6,005)77.38——
Options outstanding at December 31, 2023246,663$7.619.38$288
Vested and expected to vest at December 31, 2023246,663$7.619.38$288
Exercisable at December 31, 20236,663$80.240.49$—

The aggregate intrinsic value at year end in the table above represents the total pre-tax intrinsic value that would have been received by the option holders if all of the in-the-money options were exercised on December 31, 2023. The pre-tax intrinsic value is the difference between the closing price of our common stock on December 31, 2023, and the exercise price for each in-the-money option. This value fluctuates with the changes in the price of our common stock.

The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding at December 31, 2023:

Range ofExercise Prices · NumberOutstanding · Weighted-AverageExercise Price · Weighted-Average Remaining Life(Years) · NumberExercisable · Weighted-Average price per shareOutstanding and Vested
$5.59 - 76.80242,010$6.189.552,010$76.80
$77.60 - 116.404,653$81.720.374,653$81.72

There were 240,000 options granted during 2023 andno options were granted during 2022. As of December 31, 2023, there was $0.8 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock options.

Cash Stock Appreciation Rights

In 2016 and 2017, the Board of Directors approved grants of cash settling stock appreciation rights under the 2013 Plan. Cash stock appreciation rights vest in 25% increments on the first four anniversaries of the date of grant and expire after 10 years. Cash stock appreciation rights settle solely in cash and are treated as a liability.

There wereno cash stock appreciation rights issued during 2023 and 2022.

The fair value of each cash stock appreciation right is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes Option-Pricing Model and is revalued at the end of each period. Changes in fair value are recorded in the income statement as changes to expense. As of December 31, 2023, there wasno unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested cash stock appreciation right grants.

Restricted Stock Units

Restricted stock units granted as inducement awards or under the 2020 Plan and 2013 Plan vest inthree equal increments on the first three anniversaries of their date of grant. Restricted stock units settle in treasury stock or newly issued shares and are treated as equity. Outstanding restricted stock units granted to officers as inducement awards or under the 2013 Plan vest in full (to the extent not previously vested) upon a change in control if such unvested shares are not assumed or replaced by a publicly traded successor with an equivalent award (as such terms are defined in such officers’ change-in-control severance agreements).

The following summarizes all restricted stock units’ activity during 2023 and 2022:

Number of SharesWeighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested shares outstanding at December 31, 2021646,439$4.41
Adjustment and Correction40,000—
Granted in 2022208,1658.93
Vested in 2022(296,161)4.85
Forfeited in 2022(82,267)3.29
Unvested shares outstanding at December 31, 2022516,176$6.43
Granted in 202380,2255.73
Vested in 2023(308,523)5.53
Forfeited in 2023(44,437)7.02
Unvested shares outstanding at December 31, 2023243,441$7.24

The fair value of each restricted stock unit is estimated on the date of grant as the closing market price of our common stock on the date prior to the grant. As of December 31, 2023, there was $1.1 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to restricted stock units. This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 1.18 years.

Phantom Stock Units

In 2016 and 2017, the Board of Directors approved grants of phantom stock units under the 2013 Plan. Phantom stock units vest in 25% increments on the first four anniversaries of the date of grant. Phantom stock units settle solely in cash and are treated as a liability. Grants of phantom stock units made to officers under the 2013 Plan vest in full (to the extent not previously vested) upon a change in control if they are not assumed or replaced by a publicly traded successor with an equivalent award (as such terms are defined in such officers’ change-in-control severance agreements).

There wereno cash stock appreciation rights issued during 2023 and 2022.

The fair value of each phantom stock unit is estimated on the date of grant as the closing market price of our common stock on the date prior to the grant. Changes in our stock price will result in adjustments to compensation expense and the corresponding liability over the applicable service period. As of December 31, 2023, there wasno unrecognized compensation cost related to phantom stock units.

Performance Stock Units

Performance stock units are a form of share-based award similar to unvested shares, except that the number of shares ultimately issued is based on our performance against specific performance goals over a roughly three-year period. At the end of the performance period, the number of shares of stock issued will be determined in accordance with the specified performance target(s) in a range between 0% and 100%. Performance stock units vest solely in common stock and are treated as equity. Upon a change in control, performance stock units granted to officers vest on a pro-rated basis (based on time elapsed from the grant) to the extent not previously settled if they are not assumed or replaced by a publicly traded successor with an equivalent award (as such terms are defined in such officers’ change-in-control severance agreements). Performance Stock Units have been issued under the 2013 Plan, and the 2020 Plan as inducement awards.

The following summarizes all performance stock unit activity during 2023 and 2022:

Number of UnitsWeighted-Average GrantDate Fair Value
Performance stock units outstanding as of December 31, 202194,110$5.41
Granted in 2022117,000$7.77
Settled in 2022(69,110)5.44
Forfeited in 2022——
Performance stock units outstanding as of December 31, 2022142,000$7.34
Granted in 2023—$—
Settled in 2023——
Forfeited in 2023(99,000)7.14
Performance stock units outstanding as of December 31, 202343,000$7.80

The fair value of each performance stock unit is estimated on the date of grant as the closing market price of our common stock on the date prior to the grant, minus the present value of anticipated dividend payments. Periodic compensation expense is based on the current estimate of future performance against specific performance goals over athree-year period and is adjusted up or down based on those estimates. As of December 31, 2023, the total unrecognized compensation cost related to performance stock units was approximately $29,770. This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 0.44 years.

Cash Performance Stock Units

In 2016 and 2017, the Board of Directors approved grants of cash performance stock units under the 2013 Plan. Cash performance stock units are a form of share-based award similar to phantom stock units, except that the number of units ultimately issued is based on our performance against specific performance goals measured after athree-year period. At the end of the performance period, the number of units vesting will be determined in accordance with specified performance target(s) in a range between 0% and 100%. Cash performance stock units settle solely in cash and are treated as a liability. Upon a change in control, cash performance stock units granted to officers, vest on a pro-rated basis (based on time elapsed from the grant) to the extent not previously settled if they are not assumed or replaced by a publicly traded successor with an equivalent award (as such terms are defined in such officers’ change-in-control severance agreements).

There wasno cash performance stock unit issued during 2023 and 2022.

The fair value of each cash performance stock unit is estimated on the date of grant as the closing market price of our common stock on the date prior to the grant, minus the present value of anticipated dividend payments. Periodic compensation expense is based on the current estimate of future performance against specific performance goals over a three-year period and is adjusted up or down based on those estimates. As of December 31, 2023, there wasno unrecognized compensation cost related to cash performance stock units.

Note H —Employee Benefit Plans

Prior to January 1, 1999, we provided a defined benefit pension plan for which most of our employees were eligible to participate (the “Qualified Pension Plan”). In conjunction with significant enhancements to our 401(k) plan, we elected to freeze benefits under the Qualified Pension Plan as of December 31, 1998.

In 1994, we adopted a non-qualified, unfunded, supplemental pension plan (the “Restoration Pension Plan”) covering certain employees, which provides for incremental pension payments so that total pension payments equal those amounts that would have been payable from the principal pension plan were it not for limitations imposed by income tax regulation. The benefits under the Restoration Pension Plan were intended to provide benefits equivalent to our Qualified Pension Plan as if such plan had not been frozen. We elected to freeze benefits under the Restoration Pension Plan as of April 1, 2014.

At the end of 2021, the Board of Directors of the Company approved the division of the Qualified Pension Plan into two distinct plans, “Qualified Pension Plan I” and “Qualified Pension Plan II.” The assets and liabilities of the Qualified Pension Plan that were attributable to certain participants in Qualified Pension Plan II were spun off and transferred into Qualified Pension Plan II effective as of the end of December 31, 2021, in accordance with Internal Revenue Code section 414 (I) and ERISA Section 4044.

In January 2023, the Board of Directors of the Company approved the termination of the Qualified Pension Plan I. The termination process will take approximately eighteen months to complete and will result in the transfer of our obligations pursuant to this pension plan to a third-party provider. We expect to make a cash contribution of $7.6 million to terminate the Qualified Pension Plan I.

The overfunded or underfunded status of our defined benefit post-retirement plans is recorded as an asset or liability on our consolidated balance sheets. The funded status is measured as the difference between the fair value of plan assets and the projected benefit obligation. Periodic changes in the funded status are recognized through other comprehensive income in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. We currently measure the funded status of our defined benefit plans as of December 31, the date of our year-end Consolidated Balance Sheets.

The status of the defined benefit pension plans at year-end was as follows:

Year Ended December 31,
In thousands20232022
Change in benefit obligation
Benefit obligation at beginning of year$143,521$186,041
Interest cost7,0885,040
Actuarial gain (loss)1,465(37,014)
Benefits paid(10,647)(10,546)
Benefit obligation at end of year$141,427$143,521
Change in plan assets
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year$103,891$131,741
Actual return on plan assets7,128(20,358)
Contributions3,3243,053
Benefits paid(10,647)(10,545)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year$103,696$103,891
Funded status at end of year$(37,731)$(39,630)

The following amounts have been recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31:

In thousands20232022
Current pension liabilities$8,561$1,858
Long term pension liabilities - Qualified plans10,54018,674
Long term pension liabilities - Nonqualified plan18,63019,098
Total pension liabilities$37,731$39,630

The following amounts have been recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax, as of December 31:

In thousands20232022
Net loss$42,456$44,120

Based on current estimates, we will be required to make $2.0 million in cash contributions to our Qualified Pension Plan II, in 2024.

We are not required to make and do not intend to make any contributions to our Restoration Pension Plan in 2023 other than to the extent needed to cover benefit payments. We made benefit payments under this supplemental plan of $1.8 million in 2023.

The following information is presented for pension plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets:

In thousands20232022
Projected benefit obligation$141,427$143,521
Accumulated benefit obligation$141,427$143,521
Fair value of plan assets$103,696$103,891

The Restoration Pension Plan had an accumulated benefit obligation of $20.5 million and $21.0 million as of December 31, 2023, and 2022, respectively.

The following table presents the components of net periodic benefit cost and other amounts recognized in other comprehensive income in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for both plans:

Year Ended December 31,
In thousands20232022
Net Periodic Benefit Cost
Interest cost$7,088$5,040
Expected return on plan assets(6,216)(5,872)
Recognized actuarial loss2,5212,876
Net periodic benefit cost3,3932,044
Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income
Adjustment to pension liabilities(1,723)(10,274)
Net cost recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income$1,670$(8,230)

The components of net periodic benefit costs other than the service cost component are included in Other, net in our Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income. The estimated net loss for the defined benefit pension plans that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into net periodic benefit cost in 2024 is $1.5 million. The period over which the net loss from the Qualified Pension Plan is amortized into net periodic benefit cost was the average future lifetime of all participants (approximately 15.7 years for Qualified Pension Plan I and approximately 24.8 years for Qualified Pension Plan II ). The Qualified Pension Plan is frozen and almost all of the plan’s participants are not active employees.

The weighted-average assumptions used for measurement of the defined pension plans were as follows:

Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit costYear Ended December 31,
20232022
Discount rate
Qualified Plan I5.13%2.75%
Qualified Plan II5.18%2.92%
Restoration Plan5.12%2.73%
Expected return on plan assets
Qualified Plan I5.95%4.25%
Qualified Plan II7.05%5.75%
Restoration Plann/an/a
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligationsDecember 31,
20232022
Discount rate
Qualified Plan I5.64%5.13%
Qualified Plan II4.99%5.18%
Restoration Plan4.92%5.12%

The discount rate assumptions are based on current yields of investment-grade corporate long-term bonds. The expected long-term return on plan assets is based on the expected future average annual return for each major asset class within the plan’s portfolio (which is principally comprised of equity investments) over a long-term horizon. In determining the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets, we evaluated input from our investment consultants, actuaries, and investment management firms, including their review of asset class return expectations, as well as long-term historical asset class returns. Projected returns by such consultants and economists are based on broad equity and bond indices. Additionally, we considered our historical 15-year compounded returns, which have been in excess of the forward-looking return expectations.

The funded pension plan assets as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, by asset category, were as follows:

In thousands2023%2022%
Equity securities$20,63520%$50,09048%
Debt securities76,03673%49,84648%
Other7,0257%3,9554%
Total plan assets$103,696100%$103,891100%

The fair values presented have been prepared using values and information available as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.

The following tables present the fair value measurements of the assets in our funded pension plan:

In thousandsDecember 31,2023Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets(Level 1)Significant Other Observable Inputs(Level 2)Significant Unobservable Inputs(Level 3)
Equity securities$20,635$20,635$—$—
Debt securities76,03666,8479,189—
Total investments, excluding investments valued at NAV96,67187,4829,189—
Investments valued at NAV(1)7,025———
Total plan assets$103,696$87,482$9,189$—
In thousandsDecember 31,2022Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets(Level 1)Significant Other Observable Inputs(Level 2)Significant Unobservable Inputs(Level 3)
Equity securities$50,090$50,090$—$—
Debt securities$49,84635,57514,271—
Total investments, excluding investments valued at NAV99,93685,66514,271—
Investments valued at NAV(1)$3,955———
Total plan assets$103,891$85,665$14,271$—

(1)Investment valued at net asset value ("NAV") are comprised of cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments used to provide liquidity for the payment of benefits and other purposes. The commingled funds are valued at NAV based on the market value of the underlying investments, which are primarily government issued securities.

The investment policy for the Qualified Pension Plans focuses on the preservation and enhancement of the corpus of the plan’s assets through prudent asset allocation, quarterly monitoring and evaluation of investment results, and periodic meetings with investment managers.

The investment policy’s goals and objectives are to meet or exceed the representative indices over a full market cycle (3-5 years). The policy establishes the following investment mix, which is intended to subject the principal to an acceptable level of volatility while still meeting the desired return objectives:

Qualified Pension Plan ITargetAcceptable RangeBenchmark Index
Equities—%0% - 20%
U.S. Large Cap—%0% - 10%Russell 1000 TR
U.S. Mid Cap—%0% - 5%Russell Mid Cap Index TR
U.S. Small Cap—%0% - 5%Russell 2000 TR
International Equity
Developed—%0% - 5%MSCI EAFE Net TR USD Index
Emerging Markets—%0% - 5%MSCI Emerging Net Total Return
Fixed Income95%0% - 100%
Investment Grade95%0% - 100%BBG BARC US Aggregate Bond Index
Cash Equivalent5%0%-100%ICE BofA US 3-Month Treasury Bill Index TR
Qualified Pension Plan IITargetAcceptable RangeBenchmark Index
Equities77%62% - 87%
U.S. Large Cap28%18% - 38%Russell 1000 TR
U.S. Mid Cap18%13% - 23%Russell Mid Cap Index TR
U.S. Small Cap9%4% - 14%Russell 2000 TR
International Equity
Developed16%11% - 21%MSCI EAFE Net TR USD Index
Emerging Markets6%0% - 9%MSCI Emerging Net Total Return
Fixed Income21%11% - 31%
Investment Grade21%11% - 31%BBG BARC US Aggregate Bond Index
Cash Equivalent2%0%-40%ICE BofA US 3-Month Treasury Bill Index TR

The funded pension plans provide for investment in various investment types. Investments, in general, are exposed to various risks, such as interest rate, credit, and overall market volatility risk. Due to the level of risk associated with investments, it is reasonably possible that changes in the value of investments will occur in the near term and may impact the funded status of these plans. To address the issue of risk, the investment policy places high priority on the preservation of the value of capital (in real terms) over a market cycle. Investments are made in companies with a minimum five-year operating history and sufficient trading volume to facilitate, under most market conditions, prompt sale without severe market effect. Investments are diversified across numerous market sectors and individual companies. Reasonable concentration in any one issue, issuer, industry, or geographic area is allowed if the potential reward is worth the risk.

Investment managers are evaluated by the performance of the representative indices over a full market cycle for each class of assets. The Pension Plan Committee reviews, on a quarterly basis, the investment portfolio of each manager, which includes rates of return, performance comparisons with the most appropriate indices, and comparisons of each manager’s performance with a universe of other portfolio managers that employ the same investment style.

The expected future benefit payments for both pension plans over the next ten years as of December 31, 2023, are as follows:

In thousands
2024$89,460
20254,017
20264,111
20274,217
20284,327
2029 - 203322,809
Total$128,941

The Company also has two pension plans in its foreign jurisdictions, the associated pension liabilities are not material.

We also sponsored a 401(k) retirement plan in which we matched a portion of employees’ voluntary before-tax contributions prior to 2018. Under this plan, both employee and matching contributions vest immediately. We stopped this 401(k) match program in 2018 and resumed it in 2023. We incurred $1.2 million in 401k match expense in both 2023 and 2022.

Note I —Income Taxes

Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act

The CARES Act, signed in March 2020, lifts certain deduction limitations originally imposed by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (“2017 Tax Act”). Under the CARES Act, corporate taxpayers may carryback net operating losses (“ NOLs”) realized during 2018 through 2020 for up to five years, which was not previously allowed under the 2017 Tax Act. The CARES Act also eliminates the 80% of taxable income limitations by allowing corporate entities to fully utilize NOL carryforwards to offset taxable income in 2018, 2020 or 2021. Taxpayers may generally deduct interest up to the sum of 50% of adjusted taxable income plus business interest income (30% limit under the 2017 Tax Act) for tax years beginning January 1, 2019 and 2020. The CARES Act allows taxpayers with alternative minimum tax credits to claim a refund in 2020 for the entire amount of the credits instead of recovering the credits through refunds over a period of years, as originally enacted by the 2017 Tax Act. In addition, the CARES Act raises the corporate charitable deduction limit to 25% of taxable income and makes qualified improvement property generally eligible for 15-year cost-recovery and 100% bonus depreciation. As of December 31, 2020, the Company filed federal net operating loss carryback claims resulting in an income tax refund for $6.4 million and $3.2 million for tax years 2019 and 2018, respectively. As of December 31, 2022, the Company has received the tax refunds for the tax years 2019 and 2018 and $2.5 million of income tax refunds from the carryback of the loss generated in 2020. We have received the remaining tax refund of $5.3 million in March 2023.

The components of income tax benefit are as follows:

Year Ended December 31,
In thousands20232022
Current
Federal$(10)$60
State and local264774
Foreign8711,546
Total current$1,125$2,380
Deferred
Federal$(1,340)$(11,496)
State and local(216)(8,347)
Foreign82—
Total deferred$(1,474)$(19,843)
Total income benefit$(349)$(17,463)

The U.S. and foreign components of income (loss) before income taxes were as follows:

Year Ended December 31,
In thousands20232022
United States$(7,546)$10,252
Foreign5,6279,061
Total (loss) income before income taxes$(1,919)$19,313

The provision (benefit) for income taxes is based on the various rates set by federal, foreign and local authorities and is affected by permanent and temporary differences between financial accounting and tax reporting requirements. The principal reasons for the difference between the statutory rate and the annual effective rate for 2023 were the state taxes, change in valuation allowance, federal and foreign income tax credits and the benefit of excess stock benefits on vested restricted stock, offset by flow-through partnership income from a United Kingdom affiliate. The principal reasons for the difference between the statutory rate and the annual effective rate for 2022 were the impact of the release of the majority of the U.S. valuation allowance, federal and foreign income tax credits, and the benefit of excess stock benefits on vested restricted stock, offset by flow-through partnership income from a United Kingdom affiliate.

The differences between total income tax expense (benefit) and the amount computed by applying the statutory federal income tax rate of 21% to income (loss) before income taxes were as follows:

Year Ended December 31,
In thousands20232022
Computed expected income tax (benefit) expense$(403)$4,056
Net effect of state income taxes(206)1,074
Foreign subsidiary dividend inclusions507639
Foreign tax rate differential(257)(349)
Change in valuation allowance(562)(18,243)
Return to Provision706(141)
Change in Rate165(2,172)
Credits(543)(1,126)
Adjustments to State Attributes(137)(1,330)
Other Adjustments, net381129
Income tax benefit$(349)$(17,463)

Total income tax benefit was allocated as follows:

Year Ended December 31,
In thousands20232022
Loss from operations$(349)$(17,463)
Stockholders’ equity (deficit)——
Total$(349)$(17,463)

The tax effects of temporary differences that gave rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities were as follows:

Year Ended December 31,
In thousands20232022
Deferred tax assets
Deferred compensation and retirement plan$9,667$10,246
Accrued expenses not deductible until paid1,17733
Lease liability6,9795,591
Investment in foreign subsidiaries, outside basis difference1,6041,047
Interest Expense limitations971913
Other, net1,3201,667
Foreign net operating loss carryforwards1,3821,623
State net operating loss carryforwards5,3095,184
Foreign tax credit carryforwards3,7304,212
General Business Credit Carryovers538546
Total gross deferred tax assets32,67731,062
Less valuation allowances(7,091)(7,652)
Net deferred tax assets$25,586$23,410
Deferred tax liabilities
Property, plant and equipment$(1,485)$(2,024)
Right-of-use asset(6,144)(4,765)
Other, net(689)(315)
Total gross deferred tax liabilities(8,318)(7,104)
Net deferred tax assets$17,268$16,306

In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, we consider whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. After considering the weight of available evidence, both positive and negative (most notably the Company’s sustained growth over the past two years), the Company concluded that it is more-likely-than-not that it will realize the majority of its U.S. deferred tax assets. Certain foreign tax credits as well as certain state net operating loss carryovers will continue to have a valuation allowance until there is substantial evidence that enough future taxable income exists at a more likely than not level in order to utilize those deferred tax assets. The valuation allowance for deferred tax assets was $7.1 million and $7.7 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The change in the valuation allowance is $0.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2023.

We or one of our subsidiaries file income tax returns in the U.S. federal, U.S. state, and foreign jurisdictions. For U.S. state, federal and foreign returns, we are no longer subject to tax examinations for years prior to 2018.

There is no balance of unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2023 and 2022. Any adjustments to this liability as a result of the finalization of audits or potential settlements would not be material.

We have elected to classify any interest and penalties related to income taxes within income tax expense in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (loss).

For U.S. tax return purposes, net operating losses and tax credits are normally available to be carried forward to future years, subject to limitations as discussed below. As of December 31, 2023, the Company had no federal net operating loss carryforward. The federal foreign tax carryforward credits of $3.7 million will expire on various dates from 2023 to 2032. Federal general business credit carryforwards of $0.5 million will begin to expire on various dates from 2037 to 2042. The Company has state NOL carryforwards of $109.0 million, and foreign NOL carryforwards of $4.4 million.

Deferred income taxes have not been provided on the undistributed earnings of our foreign subsidiaries as these earnings have been, and under current plans will continue to be, permanently reinvested in these subsidiaries. It is not practicable to estimate the amount of additional taxes which may be payable upon the distribution of these earnings. However, because of the provisions in the Tax Reform Act, the tax cost of repatriation is immaterial and limited to foreign withholding taxes, currency translation and state taxes.

Note J —Earnings Per Share

In periods in which the Company has net income, the Company is required to calculate earnings per share (“EPS”) using the two-class method. The two-class method is required because the Company’s Series A Preferred Stock is considered a participating security with objectively determinable and non-discretionary dividend participation rights. Series A Preferred stockholders have the right to participate in dividends above their five percent dividend rate should the Company declare dividends on its common stock at a dividend rate higher than the five percent (on an as-converted basis). Under the two-class method, undistributed and distributed earnings are allocated on a pro-rata basis to the common and the preferred stockholders. The weighted-average number of common and preferred stock outstanding during the period is then used to calculate EPS for each class of shares.

In December 2022, we repurchased all 9,926 shares of the Company's Series A Preferred Stock then outstanding.

In periods in which the Company has a net loss, basic loss per share is calculated using the treasury stock method. The treasury stock method is calculated by dividing the net loss by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. The two-class method is not used, because the calculation would be anti-dilutive.

Reconciliations of basic and diluted EPS are as follows:

Year Ended December 31,
In thousands, except per share amounts20232022
Numerator:
Net (loss) income$(1,570)$36,776
Less: Loss from redemption of Preferred stock—1,380
Numerator for basic and diluted EPS: income attributable to common stockholders(1,570)35,396
Denominator:
Basic EPS denominator: weighted-average common shares outstanding7,3107,101
Diluted EPS denominator7,3107,457
Basic (loss) income per common share$(0.21)$4.98
Diluted (loss) income per common share$(0.21)$4.75

For the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, the following shares have been excluded from the calculation of shares used in the diluted EPS calculation:99,791 and 13,366 shares of anti-dilutive market price options;37,653 and 24,918 anti-dilutive unvested shares.

Note K —Comprehensive Income

Comprehensive income (loss) for a period encompasses net income (loss) and all other changes in equity other than from transactions with our stockholders.

Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss by component were as follows:

In thousandsDefined Benefit Pension ItemsForeign Currency ItemsTotal
Balance at December 31, 2021$(54,394)$1,066$(53,328)
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax, before reclassifications—(5,248)(5,248)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax10,274—10,274
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax10,274(5,248)5,026
Balance at December 31, 2022$(44,120)$(4,182)$(48,302)
Other comprehensive income, net of tax, before reclassifications—2,5482,548
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax1,664—1,664
Net current period other comprehensive income, net of tax1,6642,5484,212
Balance at December 31, 2023$(42,456)$(1,634)$(44,090)

Reclassification amounts related to the defined pension plans are included in the computation of net period pension benefit cost (see Note H, Employee Benefit Plans).

Note L —Acquisition of InsideOut Solutions, LLC

On December 1, 2022 (the “Closing Date”), we purchased substantially all of the assets (the “Transaction”) of InsideOut Solutions, LLC, a Florida limited liability company (“InsideOut”), for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $7.5 million (the “Purchase Price”) pursuant to an asset purchase agreement, dated as of December 1, 2022, by and between Harte Hanks and InsideOut (the “Asset Purchase Agreement”). The acquisition of InsideOut further expands our capabilities into premium sales enablement within the customer care segment and strengthens our ability to drive profitable revenue growth within our sales enablement offerings, including: (i) demand generation which creates qualified marketing leads for our clients, and (ii) inside sales offerings to further promote a client’s internal growth objectives.

Pursuant to the Asset Purchase Agreement, $5.75 million of the Purchase Price was paid in cash at closing, $1.0 million in cash was placed in escrow to satisfy indemnification obligations, and earn-outs related to future revenue performance. Separately, $0.75 million of the Purchase Price was paid at closing in 70,956 shares of Harte Hanks common stock. The share amount was based on the volume weighted closing price over the 15 trading days ending on November 28, 2022. In the year ended December 31, 2023, InsideOut didn't meet the performance requirement to earn the 1st installment of $0.5 million of the $1.0 million in escrow. As a result, $0.50 million was refunded from the escrow account and our goodwill amount was decreased by $0.5 million. The remaining $0.5 million cash in escrow account is included in other assets in our balance sheet as of December 31, 2023.

The acquisition was accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting with the Company treated as the acquiring entity. Accordingly, the consideration paid by the Company to complete the acquisition has been recorded to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated fair values as of the date of the acquisition. The carrying values for current assets and liabilities were deemed to approximate their fair values due to the short-term nature of these assets and liabilities. The following table shows the amounts recorded as of their acquisition date.

in thousandsAmount
Accounts receivable$1,445
Prepaid expenses148
Property, plant and equipment177
Total assets acquired1,770
Less: Current liabilities assumed(761)
Net assets acquired$1,009

The Purchase Price was subject to a post-closing net working capital true-up. The true up made was immaterial.

We recognized $3.6 million of intangible assets and $2.4 million of goodwill associated with this acquisition. The amount of goodwill recorded reflects expected earning potential and synergies with our Customer Care segment. We are amortizing the intangible assets on a straight-line basis over its useful life offive years. A summary of the Company’s intangible asset as of December 31, 2023, is as follows:

In thousandsWeighted Average Amortization PeriodGross Carrying AmountAccumulated AmortizationNet Carrying Amount
Customer Relationships5 years$3,600$780$2,820

Estimated future amortization expense related to intangible assets as of December 31, 2023, is as follows:

In thousands
Year Ending December 31,Amount
2024$720
2025720
2026720
2027660
Total$2,820

The Company's results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2023 includes revenue of $9.7 million from the InsideOut operation.

Note M —Litigation and Contingencies

In the normal course of our business, we are obligated under some agreements to indemnify our clients as a result of third party claims that we infringe on the proprietary rights of third parties, or third party claims relating to otherad hoc contract obligations. The terms and duration of these commitments vary and, in some cases, may be indefinite, and some of these contractual commitments do not limit the maximum amount of future payments we could become obligated to make thereunder; accordingly, our actual aggregate maximum exposure related to these types of commitments is not reasonably estimable. Historically, we have not been obligated to make significant payments for obligations of this nature, andno liabilities have been recorded for these obligations in our consolidated financial statements.

We are also subject to various claims and legal proceedings in the ordinary course of conducting our business and, from time to time, we may become involved in additional claims and lawsuits incidental to our business. We routinely assess the likelihood of adverse judgments or outcomes to these matters, as well as ranges of probable losses; to the extent losses are reasonably estimable. Accruals are recorded for these matters to the extent that management concludes a loss is probable and the financial impact, should an adverse outcome occur, is reasonable estimable.

In the opinion of management, appropriate and adequate accruals for legal matters have been made, and management believes that the probability of a material loss beyond the amounts accrued is remote. Nevertheless, we cannot predict the impact of future developments affecting our pending or future claims and lawsuits. We expense legal costs as incurred, and all recorded legal liabilities are adjusted as required as better information becomes available to us. The factors we consider when recording an accrual for contingencies include, among others: (i) the opinions and views of our general counsel and outside legal counsel; (ii) our previous experience with similar claims; and (iii) the decision of our management as to how we intend to respond to the complaints.

Note N —Restructuring Activities

For the year ended December 31, 2023, we recorded restructuring charges of $5.7 million. The 2023 restructuring charges included $4.6 million of consulting expenses, $0.8 million in lease impairment expense, $0.2 million of severance charges, and $0.1 million of facility related and other expenses.

The following table summarizes the restructuring charges which are recorded in “Restructuring Expense” in the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income.

In thousandsYear Ended December 31, 2023
Consulting expense$4,579
Severance169
Facility, asset impairment and other expense
Lease impairment and termination expense798
Fixed Asset disposal and impairment charges63
Facility and other expenses78
Total facility, asset impairment and other expense939
Total$5,687

The following table summarizes the changes in liabilities related to restructuring activities:

In thousandsConsultingSeveranceFacility, asset impairment and other expenseTotal
Beginning balance:$—$—$—$—
Additions4,579169784,826
Payments and adjustment(1,005)(25)(40)(1,070)
Ending balance:$3,574$144$38$3,756

In connection with our cost-saving and restructuring initiatives, we expect to incur total restructuring charges of $10.1 million through the end of 2024.

Note O —Segment Reporting

Harte Hanks is a leading global customer experience company. We have organized our operations into three business segments based on the types of products and services we provide: Marketing Services, Customer Care, and Fulfillment & Logistics.

Our Marketing Services segment leverages data, insight, and experience to support clients as they engage customers through digital, traditional, and emerging channels. We partner with clients to develop strategies and tactics to identify and prioritize customer audiences in B2C and B2B transactions. Our key service offerings include strategic business, brand, marketing and communications planning, data strategy, audience identification and prioritization, predictive modeling, creative development and execution across traditional and digital channels, website and app development, platform architecture, database build and management, marketing automation, and performance measurement, reporting and optimization.

Our Customer Care segment offers intelligently responsive contact center solutions, which use real-time data to effectively interact with each customer. Customer contacts are handled through phone, e-mail, social media, text messaging, chat and digital self-service support. We provide these services utilizing our advanced technology infrastructure, human resource management skills and industry experience.

Our Fulfillment & Logistics segment consists of mail and product fulfillment and logistics services. We offer a variety of product fulfillment solutions, including printing on demand, managing product recalls, and distributing literature and promotional products to support B2B trade, drive marketing campaigns, and improve customer experience. We are also a provider of third-party logistics and freight optimization in the United States.

There are three principal financial measures reported to our CEO (the chief operating decision maker) for use in assessing segment performance and allocating resources. Those measures are revenue, operating income and operating income plus depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”). Operating income for segment reporting, disclosed below, is revenues less operating costs and allocated corporate expenses. Segment operating expenses are generally directly attributed to our segments and also include allocations of certain centrally incurred costs such as employee benefits, occupancy, information systems, accounting services, internal legal staff, and human resources administration. These costs are allocated based on actual usage or other appropriate methods. Unallocated corporate expenses are corporate overhead expenses not attributable to the operating groups. Interest income and expense are not allocated to the segments. The Company does not allocate assets to our reportable segments for internal reporting purposes, nor does our CEO evaluate operating segments using discrete asset information. The accounting policies of the segments are consistent with those described in the Note B, Significant Accounting Policies.

The following table presents financial information by segment year ended December 31, 2023:

(In thousands)Marketing ServicesCustomer CareFulfillment & LogisticsRestructuringUnallocated CorporateTotal
Operating revenue$43,204$63,327$84,961$—$—$191,492
Segment operating expense34,79549,85173,213—20,350178,209
Restructuring expense———5,687—5,687
Contribution margin$8,409$13,476$11,748$(5,687)$(20,350)$7,596
Overhead Allocation2,9842,7742,891—(8,649)—
EBITDA$5,425$10,702$8,857$(5,687)$(11,701)$7,596
Depreciation and amortization expense3121,2801,143—1,5024,237
Operating income (loss)$5,113$9,422$7,714$(5,687)$(13,203)$3,359

The following table presents financial information by segment year ended December 31, 2022:

(In thousands)Marketing ServicesCustomer CareFulfillment & LogisticsRestructuringUnallocated CorporateTotal
Operating revenue$52,975$67,205$86,098$—$—$206,278
Segment operating expense41,24152,17372,180—22,849188,443
Restructuring expense——————
Contribution margin$11,734$15,032$13,918$—$(22,849)$17,835
Overhead allocation4,3902,8653,325—(10,580)—
EBITDA$7,344$12,167$10,593$—$(12,269)$17,835
Depreciation and amortization expense362884824—6582,728
Operating income (loss)$6,982$11,283$9,769$—$(12,927)$15,107
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